Effect of Rubber Flooring on the Development of Claw Lesions in Lactating Dairy Cows Housed in Free Stall Barns

Authors

  • J. Vanegas Veterinary Medicine Teaching and Research Center, Tulare, CA
  • M. W. Overton Veterinary Medicine Teaching and Research Center, Tulare, CA
  • W. M. Sischo Veterinary Medicine Teaching and Research Center, Tulare, CA
  • S. L. Berry Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, Davis, CA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20054853

Keywords:

confinement production systems, lameness, ousing factors, concrete flooring, claw lesions, rubber flooring

Abstract

With the increased numbers of confinement dairy production systems, lameness has become a major economic cost to the dairy industry. Housing factors, specifically related to concrete flooring in free stall barns, have been associated with an increased risk of claw lesions and clinical lameness. Research has suggested that alternative flooring surfaces may prevent or decrease the occurrence of lameness and claw lesions. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of rubber flooring on the occurrence of claw lesions, clinical lameness and hoof growth and wear.

Cover image of the 38th Conference Proceedings: A cow nuzzles her newborn calf in a stall with straw bedding. Both are content. Yellow background.

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Published

2005-09-24

Issue

2005

Section

Research Summaries 3

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